ACT in Action: Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Real-Life Change

Available with English captions and subtitles in Spanish.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) helps people build resilience by embracing acceptance and taking purposeful action. This on-demand training introduces the essentials of ACT and provides practical exercises for real-world use.

Why This Training Matters

ACT is an evidence-based, flexible therapy that can be applied across diverse contexts, offering real-world value that empowers clinicians, caregivers, and individuals alike. A deeper understanding of ACT helps reduce avoidance and supports long-term growth.

What You’ll Learn

  • How ACT principles foster resilience and flexibility
  • Practical skills for everyday challenges
  • Real-life examples of ACT in action

Who Should Watch

  • Mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, counselors, and therapists)
  • Pediatricians and primary-care providers
  • K-12 and university educators and school staff
  • Public health professionals
  • Parents and caregivers
  • Community and faith leaders
  • Executives, managers, and HR professionals

Event Details

  • Date Recorded: November 18, 2025
  • Length: 60 minutes
  • Presenter: Fairlee C. Fabrett, PhD

Topics Covered During This Training

  • What is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)?
  • How has ACT evolved since its introduction?
  • What are the six core principles of ACT, and how do they relate to one another?
  • What is psychological flexibility, and how does it fit into the ACT model?
  • What is the difference between ACT and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
  • Is ACT just about passively accepting everything, or is there more to it?
  • How do you help patients practice cognitive defusion in clinical settings?
  • Is repeating a word until it loses meaning an example of defusion?
  • How do you help patients identify their core values?
  • How do you translate patients’ values into actionable goals in ACT?
  • Can ACT be incorporated into initial patient assessments or intake interviews?
  • How do you navigate cultural differences when facilitating values work with patients?
  • How do you catch yourself from imposing your own values on patients during ACT?
  • How do you measure progress in ACT when outcomes involve shifts in flexibility rather than symptom elimination?
  • How might non-clinician caregivers apply ACT techniques when supporting loved ones?
  • How can professionals who help others through challenges, but aren’t clinicians, apply ACT principles?
  • Are people using ACT more in everyday life, such as in self-help or parenting?
  • What are your favorite ACT resources for clinicians and non-clinicians?

The information discussed is intended to be educational and should not be used as a substitute for guidance provided by your health care provider. Please consult with your treatment team before making any changes to your care plan.

Resources

You may also find this additional information useful:

About the Expert

Fairlee C. Fabrett, PhD, is the director of training and staff development for McLean’s child and adolescent division. She is trained in cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy and has expertise in acceptance and commitment therapy.

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